At a Glance
- 72-year-old Thomas Hengel and his 61-year-old wife Lisa were killed when their SUV crashed into a house on Jan. 17, 2026.
- The family inside the home escaped unharmed.
- The accident left the community mourning a beloved high-school coach and teacher.
- Why it matters: The tragedy highlights the sudden loss of a pillar in the local education community.
The night of January 17, 2026, a quiet evening in Harrison Township turned into a scene of grief when an SUV driven by Thomas Hengel and his wife Lisa collided with a residential home just after 6:30 p.m. The impact was severe enough to claim both lives, yet the family inside the house was fortunate to escape injury.
A Life of Service
Thomas Hengel spent more than three decades shaping young minds at Clearview High School. According to Suburban Family Magazine, he began his teaching career in 1981 and retired in 2025, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond the classroom. Even after retirement, he continued coaching in a volunteer capacity, dedicating over 40 years to the school’s athletic programs.
- Teaching: 33 years as a classroom educator.
- Coaching: More than 100 seasons across various sports.
- Specialization: Cross-country team leadership.
- Recognition: Inducted into the Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame in 2018.
Hengel’s commitment to student development was reflected in the Clearview School District’s in-memoriam statement released on Monday:
> “As a 33-year educator and over 40-year coach, Tom exemplified what it means to serve students beyond the classroom. Anyone who knew Tom knows his dedication to his former students and his past/current student-athletes. He lived a disciplined life, always focusing on doing things the ‘right way’, and passed those values onto his students and athletes. Those valuable life lessons, including perseverance, mental toughness, personal accountability, and the importance of character, will always remain with those he taught and coached.”
Community Reactions
Neighbors and former students shared their memories and grief across social media and local news outlets. Mike Misuraco, a longtime resident, expressed the collective shock felt by the community:
> “It’s just unfortunate what happened and its horrible for us,” said Mike Misuraco, a neighbor. “My kids and wife, to look across the street and see two empty homes right now, when yesterday morning they were full of life. Now, both lots sit empty.”
Former Clearview High School senior Tyler Galtman recalled Hengel’s influence:
> “He pushed me,” said Tyler Galtman. “He would always say, ‘Get out strong and hold on,’ and just like motivate you, even if you didn’t motivate yourself. He just believed in everybody really.”
The local news outlet, identified as News Of Philadelphia, highlighted the tragedy as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of educators.
Accident Details
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 17, 2026 | SUV driven by Thomas and Lisa Hengel crashed into a house in Harrison Township after 6:30 p.m. |
| Jan. 18, 2026 | News of the fatal crash reported by local media and confirmed by authorities |
| Jan. 19, 2026 | Clearview School District released an in-memoriam statement |
The crash was investigated by the local police department, which confirmed that the SUV struck the front of the house, causing a significant impact. No injuries were reported among the occupants of the home, and emergency services responded promptly.
Legacy and Impact
Thomas Hengel’s dedication to student success extended beyond sports. He was known for instilling values of discipline, perseverance, and accountability. His coaching philosophy emphasized personal growth as much as athletic achievement. The Hall of Fame induction in 2018 underscored his influence on the region’s sports community.
- Discipline: Emphasized structured training and academic responsibility.
- Perseverance: Encouraged athletes to push through challenges.
- Character: Focused on sportsmanship and integrity.
The loss of Hengel is felt deeply by former students, colleagues, and the broader community. Many have taken to social media to share stories of how his guidance shaped their lives, underscoring the profound effect a dedicated educator can have.
Memorials and Support
In the wake of the tragedy, the Clearview School District announced plans to honor Hengel’s memory through a dedicated scholarship fund for student-athletes. Additionally, a memorial service will be held at the school, allowing students, faculty, and community members to pay their respects.
Families of the victims have requested privacy during this difficult time, while the district expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.
Key Takeaways
- The fatal crash of Thomas and Lisa Hengel underscores the sudden loss of a cherished community figure.
- Hengel’s legacy as a teacher and coach continues to influence students and athletes across Clearview High School.
- The community’s response reflects the deep respect and admiration for his contributions to education and athletics.
- Memorial efforts will ensure his values and dedication endure for future generations.
The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of those who dedicate themselves to nurturing young talent.
